Is the BOTOX® you’re getting real?
The FDA released a statement last year regarding counterfeit BOTOX®. Some medical offices and medical clinics across the country were found to be selling fake BOTOX®. Although the release was only issued to alert healthcare practitioners and the general public in the US, we’re sure Canadian providers were also affected. The fake BOTOX® was sold by an unlicensed supplier who is not authorized to distribute or ship drug products in the US. The FDA did not name the supplier.
These counterfeit products have not been inspected by the FDA. The FDA cannot confirm that the manufacture, quality, storage, and handling of them follow U.S. standards. It is unknown how much botulinum toxin is actually in them. If there is too little (or none at all) they may be ineffective, while if there’s too much, they could be dangerous to your health. As a result, they are not safe and should not be used.
How can I spot fake BOTOX®?
It can be difficult to spot fake BOTOX® if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
- missing lot number on the actual vial
- the box (carton packaging) does not have any entries next to the LOT: MFG: EXP:
- “Botulinum Toxin Type A” is printed on the vial and carton, rather than what it should say: “OnabotulinumtoxinA”
- a taller, thinner vial
- no hologram on the vial
If you’re ever in doubt about whether you’re getting the real thing, don’t be afraid to ask to see what you’re getting. Ask to see the carton or vial for confirmation.